Principal photography has begun on Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure “Aquaman,” helmed by James Wan (“The Conjuring” films, “Furious 7”). Jason Momoa stars in the title role, returning to the character he plays in this fall’s “Justice League.”

“Aquaman” faces an uphill battle at the box office. The character is widely used as a pop culture punchline despite being around for 75 years. Known by fans of DC Comics as the ruler of Atlantis but committed to protecting the entire globe, both land and sea, the character is a frequent joke on shows such as Family Guy, Robot Chicken, as well as numerous comedians.

As is fitting for the king of the sea, the shoot will take place mainly in locations spanning the stunning Gold Coast of Queensland, Australia, with extensive filming to be accomplished at Village Roadshow Studios. The production will utilize the facility’s sprawling backlot and all nine VRS soundstages, including its newest, Stage 9, the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Filming will also take place in Newfoundland, Sicily and Tunisia.

Currently set for a 2018 release, the film is based on characters from DC.